The whole time I was writing my book, I refused to read Peace Corps books, or any books about Africa for that matter. I didnt want any outside
influence at all. When I was first invited to Peace Corps, however, I dashed out to the nearest book store to look for books on West Africa. The only relevant one at the Borders in Chicago was The Ponds of Kalambayi, by Mike Tidwell, so that was my introduction to Peace Corps literature. Later on I found George Packers TheVillage of Waiting by chance in a used book store. Those two books were my first taste of Africa, and I found myself referencing them quite a bit during my first few months as a Volunteer. Since I finished my manuscript, Ive of course read Peter Hesslers River Town, and Ive been instructed to pick up Living Poor as soon as I can get my hands on it. The difference is that now I read them to see how the authors presented the similar themes that run through the Peace Corps experience.

Do you see yourself as another Peter Hessler or Mike Tidwell?

I really love to write, and I think to a certain extent it comes naturally. Henry Miller called it exquisite torture, and I cant think of a better description. Its a pretty incredible process  full of passion and frustration and elation all within minutes of each other sometimes. Exhausting at times, really, but it feels meaningful and true to myself. Am I another Peter Hessler or Mike Tidwell? Id be flattered if people saw parallels, but I think Im mostly just me.

What advice would you give PCVs now who hope to write a book about their experience?

Write now. Dont put it off because youre tired or the kerosene is low. Write as soon as things happen to you, and write a lot, even when not much is happening. I think its also important not to think of your writing as a manuscript. Most of my stories come straight from journals and letters home  so they were less self-conscious, more honest, more natural, and I think thats what made them work. In terms of turning writings into a manuscript, the process is different for everyone.
Two things I could not have done without are isolation and a defined time period. Its hard to be disciplined without any structure, as Im sure many RPCVs will agree. What helps is having a space that you associate with writing and a set amount of time to get the writing done. It also helps if the stories are still fresh.

What are you doing now?

I am working in the Placement Office at Peace Corps/Washington, sending people off to be Volunteers in Africa. I am also figuring out how to visit my parents who just moved to Algeria, and sketching out the first steps for my next book.

Do you have another book planned?

Yes  a few actually. Id like to somehow marry writing and third world development work so Im looking for opportunities to go overseas again. For now, though, I have something entirely different up my sleeve.